The Battle Against Consumer Fireworks: A Look at Massachusetts’ Ongoing Ban and the Dangers of Illegal Use
Since 1943, Massachusetts has been the only state in the U.S. with a complete ban on consumer fireworks, including sparklers and firecrackers. This ban has remained in place despite efforts to relax restrictions in other states, such as Delaware, New Jersey, and New York.
In 2014, Massachusetts was one of four states in the Northeast with full bans on fireworks. However, since then, Delaware and New Jersey have relaxed restrictions to allow ground-based fireworks and handheld sparklers on certain occasions. In contrast, New York continues to have a strict ban on all types of fireworks except for those used by professionals at licensed displays.
Despite these changes in other states, officials in Massachusetts remain committed to enforcing their ban on consumer fireworks. Anyone caught with illegal fireworks may face fines and police are required to confiscate them. Fire departments in Massachusetts have reported numerous fires, burns, and injuries related to illegal fireworks between 2013 and 2022 alone. In fact, there were over 106 fires, 38 injuries and over $400,000 in damages attributed to fireworks last year alone (in 2022).
The Department of Fire Services and State Police have emphasized the dangers of illegal fireworks and encouraged residents to attend professional displays instead. They provide a webpage that lists events across the state where people can safely watch professional displays while still enjoying the holiday spirit.
